The trek from Tofino to Tahiti is an inspiring Olympic surfing odyssey.

To appreciate how the sport has evolved from fun, sun, sand and surf to the biggest worldwide competitive stage — and its quest to remain an evolving Olympic staple — take a journey of self discovery and unbridled passion with Sanoa Dempfle-Olin.

The 19-year-old dynamo was raised in the supportive surfing culture of tiny Tofino, B.C., a Vancouver Island mecca for those who crave crazy, crashing waves in any weather, and she’s the first to represent Canada in shortboard Olympic competition later this month in Tahiti.